Projects typically begin in a flurry of enthusiasm. As do resolutions: diets, Bible study plans, and miscellaneous renovations. Beginnings are packed with energy.
And the ending, of course, when we reach the goal, is always cause for celebration — a little fanfare and a victory lap.
It’s in the middle where we most often struggle, when the out-of-the-gate excitement has faded and still the finish line feels so far away.
But this is where we spend most of our time. In the middle. In fact, it’s where many of us find ourselves today, as we pursue our various dreams and tasks and ventures.
Here’s the good news. It’s right here in the middle — long though it may be — where our greatest growth takes place, and where the battles are ultimately won.
In baseball, what do they say when a runner reaches second? He’s in scoring position. Technically, he’s only half-way to home plate, but in a sense, he’s almost there. Just one base hit away.
SUFFICIENT GRACE
Paul’s ministry began in a flash of power: a blinding light and a one-on-one encounter with the risen Christ. His ministry ended in a triumphant cry: I have fought the fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
But what about the in-between years? The relentless plodding. The setbacks, the opposition, the betrayals. And those Romans 7 years, when he struggled with his own sinfulness, his wretchedness. And then there’s the health problems he endured along the way. How did he face those days?
He kept moving forward, day after day, eyes on the prize, fueled by a promise:
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
CALLING THE MIDDLE BY ITS OTHER NAME
We rarely find ourselves too weak to begin. Beginning is the easy part.
But too weary to go on? It can happen every day, once you make it to the middle.
So here’s what we do. We follow the example of St. Paul. We press on, looking at what lies ahead, not what’s left behind. And we cling to this promise: My grace is sufficient for you.
Sufficiency. It means enough. Enough to get you through this day. Enough to remind you that you’re not alone. Enough to assure you that it’s all worthwhile.
It may feel like the middle lasts forever, but there’s another name you can call it: Scoring position.
Stay the course, you’ll get there.
